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Visitors can explore the historical architecture of the Hou Tu Temple, which is dedicated to the God of the Earth. The temple offers a serene environment perfect for reflection and learning about local traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness local rituals and cultural performances, particularly during festival times.
Hou Tu Temple is a widely worshipped deity in China, the god of land. Located north of Miaoqian Village on the banks of the Yellow River, 40 kilometers southwest of Wanrong County, Shanxi Province, it is the oldest temple dedicated to Hou Tu (Earth Mother) in China. In 1996, the State Council designated the Wanrong Hou Tu Temple a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site.
While the existing Hou Tu Temple lacks the grandeur of its Tang and Song dynasty counterparts, its rigorous and complete layout makes it the largest Hou Tu Temple in China. Existing buildings within the temple include the mountain gate, well platform, offering hall, incense pavilion, main hall, Autumn Wind Tower, and the East and West Five Tiger Side Halls, all of which are magnificent and ingeniously constructed. The mountain gate and well platform form a rare "pin"-shaped stage in China, providing an important example for the study of ancient Chinese stage structures and possessing immense historical and artistic value.
Located behind the main hall, Qiufeng Tower is named after the stele inscribed with Emperor Wu of Han's "Autumn Wind Ode." Standing 32.6 meters tall, the tower rests on a lofty platform, the Sweeping Altar, extending east to west. The three-story building is surrounded by a corridor. Its proportions are balanced, and the brackets under the eaves are simple and exquisite, creating a majestic and elegant structure that is a rare treasure among surviving ancient buildings. Preserved within the shrine is the Song Dynasty stele "Inscription for the Reverence of the Two Saints of Fenyin," written and inscribed by Emperor Zhenzong himself. Inscriptions inscribed by the emperor were rare in ancient China, making it one of the most famous steles in ancient China.
Temperate continental climate, suitable for all seasons
2-3 hours
Adult tickets are 40 yuan; children under 1.2 meters, people over 70 years old, people with disabilities, active military officers, and revolutionary disabled people can get free tickets with relevant certificates.
Children between 1.2-1.4 meters can enjoy children's tickets at 20 yuan.
In addition, tickets are free on the first and fifteenth day of the lunar month.
8:30-18:00
Hou Tu Temple, built during the Tang Dynasty, is dedicated to Hou Tu, the Earth God, and holds significant cultural importance for the local people. It is a symbol of respect for nature and agricultural prosperity, and is often visited during traditional festivals that honor the Earth and farming cycles.
Hou Tu Temple is located in Yuncheng, Shanxi Province, China. You can reach the temple by taxi or bus from Yuncheng's central area. The nearest major bus station is within a 15-minute drive from the temple. There is no direct metro service to the temple.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially during local festivals when the temple sees more visitors.
The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the temple’s entrance. It’s recommended to buy tickets on-site as the temple doesn’t have online ticket sales.
For general visits, there is no need to book tickets in advance. However, if planning to attend special ceremonies or festivals, it’s advisable to inquire locally about booking arrangements a few days in advance.
A typical visit takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your interest in local traditions and exploring the temple grounds.
Key highlights include the main prayer hall, ancient statues of Hou Tu, and the surrounding garden area that offers a peaceful atmosphere. The ritual offerings during special times provide unique insights into local customs.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally, English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request. Audio guides may also be available for rent in the local language.
The best photography spots include the main entrance gate and the surrounding temple garden, especially during sunset when the lighting adds to the temple's charm. Be mindful of local customs when photographing ceremonies.
Start at the entrance, exploring the garden and the prayer halls. Then, move towards the inner sanctum to observe the Earth God statues and any ongoing rituals. Finally, take a walk around the temple grounds for panoramic views.
Night visits are generally not available. However, the temple may host special events or religious ceremonies during certain festivals, which provide a unique experience.
It can get crowded during weekends and especially during traditional Chinese festivals. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours.
The temple has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no major food outlets inside the temple, but small local vendors may sell snacks near the entrance. There are also small shops selling souvenirs.
The temple is accessible for elderly and children, but there may be some uneven pathways that could be challenging for visitors with disabilities. It is advisable to check ahead for accessibility options.
Cash is typically required for tickets and small purchases. Mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in some areas, but not everywhere.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the temple grounds, but there are a few local eateries and snack stalls nearby where you can enjoy traditional Shanxi dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in the nearby restaurants, offering simple local dishes. Halal food is not commonly available in this area.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Yuncheng city center, about a 15-20 minute drive from the temple. Some hotels also offer tours to nearby attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Yuncheng Museum and the ancient ruins of Wang’s Tomb, both of which are easily accessible from the temple by taxi or bus.
Souvenir shops around the temple sell traditional crafts, incense, and small statues of Hou Tu. Locally made handicrafts are popular items for visitors to take home.
The best transportation options are to either take a taxi to nearby attractions or use local buses. There are also buses connecting Yuncheng city center to other regional attractions.
